There is no doubt that January is a time where we all tighten our belts after the splurge at Christmas. If you are planning a little getaway The Viking Hotel is the perfect base for the lots of activities in Waterford that are completely free or at a very low cost. You can enjoy your break away without breaking the bank.
The Beach
We often associate the beach with summertime, however there is nothing better than a walk on the beach when the weather is so fresh. In Waterford we are lucky to have some beautiful coastal areas to choose from including Tramore, Woodstown, Portally Cove, Clonea and Whiting Bay and it doesn’t cost a cent to visit them!
Christchurch Cathedral
If you like a bit of history then Christchurch Cathedral is a must see. The first Cathedral in Waterford on this site was built in 1096 by the Vikings. Malchus was appointed as the first bishop in Waterford and he just happened to be the first in Ireland too. In 1170 Strongbow, an English Knight married the Irish Princess Aoife. Aoife’s father brought troops from England to reclaim his throne and so ensured his now Son in Law, Strongbow would inherit the throne. This Cathedral changed over time, reconstruction began in 1773 and was completed in 1779 for the sum of £5,397. The Cathedral was designed by John Roberts who had also designed the Roman Catholic Cathedral in Barronstrand street. This meant that Waterford became the only city in Europe where both the Protestant and Catholic Cathedral were designed by the same man. The Cathedral is free to enter and is certainly worth a look.
The Greenway
Located just a short drive from The Viking Hotel is the Waterford Greenway. Whether you are a keen cyclist or just out for a leisurely walk, The Greenway is the perfect backdrop for all. There are many paths you can take that stretch from Dungarvan to Waterford. At the half way point in Kilmacthomas, you will find the visitor centre where there is a lovely restaurant. Here you can get a bite to eat to raise your energy levels before continuing on your journey. The Greenway Waterford Bike Hire is located at WIT Arena where you will also find free parking and a café. Adult bike hire starts from as little as €15.
Mahon Falls
This is an 80 metre waterfall near Lemybrien located in The Comeragh Mountains. Mahon Falls are surrounded by breath taking surroundings and are not to be missed. Lemybrien is located less than 20 minutes from The Viking Hotel towards Dungarvan . There is a carpark conveniently located close to the waterfall making it easily accessible. Legend has it that there is a spot near ‘the Fairy Tree’ where it appears your car is rolling backwards, even as you drive forward. Many have maintained this is true!
Golf
Williamstown Golf Course is the closest to The Viking Hotel less than 10 minutes’ drive and is open to all on a ‘pay & play’ basis. Daily green fees start at just €13. The 18 hole golf course is set on 130 acres of rolling countryside and is also one of the longest inland golf courses in Ireland.q
If you are looking to get away on a short break in the new year, Viking Hotel is the perfect destination. Call us directly on 051 336933 to book or see our special offers page for more information.
